Returning Home: Mystery and Mayhem in Robin Cannon’s Connecticut
Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast
Join us for a special episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast as host Jed Doherty welcomes celebrated author Robin Cannon for an in-depth conversation about her latest cozy mystery, "Into the Shallows Darkly." As the highly-anticipated sequel to her popular novel "Into the Attic Darkly," this engaging episode dives into the compelling world of Connecticut-based crime fiction. Discover how Robin draws inspiration from the places and people around her in Connecticut, weaving local charm and personal experiences into her twist-filled mysteries. Robin shares the creative journey behind...
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Libraries, Creativity, and Counting Pears
Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast
In this episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast, host Jed Doherty welcomes author Emily Raymond and her mother, illustrator Gail Striegel, to discuss their collaborative children’s book, "Danny the Goat Does Not Like Pears." The conversation begins with Emily recounting the inspiration drawn from her childhood habit of hiding vitamins—a quirk that became the heart of Danny the goat’s story as he goes on whimsical adventures to avoid eating pears. Gail shares her artistic background and describes how their familial bond made the book’s illustration process especially joyful...
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Solving Mysteries Between 'I Do's': Mary Karnes Tells All
Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast
In the latest episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals podcast, host Jed Doherty sits down with Mary Karnes, the brilliant mind behind the captivating wedding planner mystery series that's taking the literary world by storm. Karnes shares her fascinating journey from real-life wedding planner to cozy mystery author, offering listeners a peek into the world of "Save the Fate" and the art of crafting the perfect mystery. Inspired by her own experiences planning her daughters' weddings, Karnes discovered a unique storytelling opportunity. Her protagonist, Kate, is a wedding planner from...
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The Second
Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast
In an inspiring episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast, author Timothy Craig shares the compelling story behind his young adult novel, "The Second". This emotional journey follows 17-year-old Kyle Castleman as he navigates life after a devastating car accident leaves his father in a coma. Craig's novel was born from a deeply personal experience with his own father's hospitalization in 2017. During a critical medical moment, he discovered the profound healing power of music - a theme that becomes the heartbeat of his storytelling. The book explores Kyle's quest to wake his father...
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Empowering Voices: Jordan Lopez's Neurodivergent Narrative
Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast
In the latest episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals podcast, author Jordan Lopez opens up about his powerful "Look Down Upon" young adult trilogy, offering a raw and authentic portrayal of neurodiversity that's been missing from literature for too long. Lopez, who is himself on the autism spectrum, created protagonist Luke Ramirez as a way to challenge stereotypes and provide meaningful representation for neurodivergent teens and young adults. The series follows Luke's journey through high school and college, confronting bullying, family secrets, and personal growth in a way that feels...
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Rhymes, Writing, and Inspiration
Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast
In this captivating episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals podcast, host Jed Doherty sits down with Amanda Halpin, a special education teacher and debut children's book author who's bringing a splash of color to the literary world with her enchanting picture book, "Onyx Pearl." Halpin's journey is as vibrant as her storytelling. Inspired by a student on the autism spectrum and her lifelong passion for writing, she crafted a unique tale about a character living in a black-and-white world who discovers the magic of color through nature. The book, aimed at children aged 8-10, is a poetic...
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Secrets of Grab Town: A Conversation with Sarah P. Blanchard
Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast
In this captivating episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast, host Jed Doherty sits down with Sarah P. Blanchard, a dynamic author who proves that great storytelling knows no age limit. At 73, Blanchard is making waves in the literary world with her gripping psychological suspense novel, "Grab Town." The story behind the book is as intriguing as its plot. Inspired by a real-life location in North Carolina, "Grab Town" weaves a complex narrative spanning two timelines. The novel follows twin sisters who discover an unfinished manuscript written by their mother's best friend, uncovering...
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From Marina to Manuscript: Paul Sargia's Literary Journey
Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast
In this captivating episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast, host Jed Doherty sits down with author Paul Sargia to explore the fascinating journey behind his latest thriller, "The Catch." Set in the vibrant landscape of 1978 New York and New Jersey, this novel is more than just a page-turning adventure—it's a profound exploration of personal transformation. Sargia's writing journey is anything but conventional. A former physical education major, he discovered his passion for storytelling through an unexpected path of self-discovery. Inspired by a philosophical mentor, Sargia...
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Spies On Borrowed Time
Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast
In a captivating episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast, author Neil P Randle takes listeners on a thrilling journey through his acclaimed "Spies at All Times" trilogy, culminating in the release of "Spies on Borrowed Time." Host Jed Doherty delves deep into Randale's unique approach to spy fiction, which masterfully intertwines historical events with gripping narrative. Randale, collaborating with co-author Jeff Netting, has created a series that goes beyond traditional spy thrillers. The books chronicle pivotal moments in recent history, including the fall of the Berlin Wall,...
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Fiona's Friends: A Skunk's Tale of Acceptance
Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast
In this delightful episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast, host Jed Doherty sits down with local author and illustrator Heather Mezzacappa to explore her enchanting new middle-grade novel, "Fiona's Friends to the Rescue." Mezzacappa's creative journey began in her own backyard, where a family of skunks inspired her latest book. The story follows Fiona, a young skunk, and her diverse group of animal friends - a squirrel, a crow, and a frog - as they navigate friendship, acceptance, and a daring rescue mission. A lifelong artist, Mezzacappa has always been passionate about creativity....
info_outlineIn this captivating episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals podcast, host Jed Doherty sits down with Amanda Halpin, a special education teacher and debut children's book author who's bringing a splash of color to the literary world with her enchanting picture book, "Onyx Pearl."
Halpin's journey is as vibrant as her storytelling. Inspired by a student on the autism spectrum and her lifelong passion for writing, she crafted a unique tale about a character living in a black-and-white world who discovers the magic of color through nature. The book, aimed at children aged 8-10, is a poetic exploration of discovery, imagination, and the transformative power of the natural world.
As a special education teacher in Middletown, Connecticut, Halpin brings a unique perspective to storytelling. She candidly discusses the challenges of modern education, from technology's impact on student attention to the difficulties of teaching during the pandemic. Her insights reveal a deep commitment to engaging children and encouraging their creativity.
The podcast doesn't just explore "Onyx Pearl" - it delves into Halpin's broader creative vision. She hints at future adventures for her protagonist and shares her plans for a poetry book for adults, showcasing her versatility as a writer.
Listeners will be charmed by Halpin's warm storytelling, her dedication to education, and her passion for inspiring young minds. Whether you're a parent, educator, or book lover, this episode offers a delightful glimpse into the creative process of a promising new author.
Want to explore "Onyx Pearl"? You can find the book on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Follow Amanda Halpin's writing journey on her Facebook page, "Amanda Halpin Writes," and stay tuned for her upcoming website.
Don't miss this heartwarming conversation that celebrates creativity, education, and the magic of storytelling!